“Between Two Worlds,” an exhibition of paintings by Ruby Wang, had a public reception on Friday, Sept. 27, presented by the Binghamton University Art Museum staff and the Asian and Asian American studies department. The exhibition will run until Monday, Dec. 16. A lecture by Wang and friends accompanied the reception on Thursday, followed by the New York Conference on Asian Studies held on Friday and Saturday. These events highlight the efforts of Binghamton’s Asian studies department to bring Asian culture to campus and to spotlight an artist with local roots.

At the public reception, Wang said she considers Binghamton to be her hometown despite being born in China. Her first professional painting was displayed here, and WSKG granted her the Public TV and Radio Art Awards in 1985. The exhibit shows her connection to Binghamton, her Chinese roots and her American influences.

“Between Two Worlds” spans decades and shows Wang’s development as an artist. Her early work reflects a traditional Chinese style, emulating her mentors. These paintings consist of traditional landscapes and use mostly ink on rice paper, a familiar Chinese technique. Some works experimented with other media, like collage and gold foil. Her subjects remain natural but become more abstract over time as Wang’s style blends Eastern and Western cultures. My personal favorite, “Cosmo,” used collage-like techniques and rich colors to create an ethereal feel. Wang’s most recent work employs ink and water for a more abstract, cloudy effect, which would look at home on the wall of a modern mansion. These huge panels are also rice paper, giving Chinese techniques a Western twist.

“The kinds of shades and colors used show a positivity towards life,” said Neel Khurjekar, a graduate student studying engineering. The exhibit is a must-see for any art lover, Asian studies student or anyone simply wanting to see a new side of campus.

The Art Museum staff and the Asian studies department put a wonderful reception together, complete with refreshments, a casual atmosphere and enthusiastic volunteers and staff. Exhibitions are open to the public, and the short walk to the Fine Arts Building leaves no excuse for students not to stop by.

We are privileged to have such talented artists’ work like Ruby Wang’s displayed on campus. Whether you’re an art history major or the words “Monet” and “impressionism” put you to sleep, “Between Two Worlds” is worth a visit to open your mind to Chinese culture and art.